Edmonton’s downtown farmers market encourages people to shop local 

With U.S. tariffs still looming over cross-border trade, business groups in Edmonton are encouraging residents to support local entrepreneurs — a message amplified by the launch of the Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market.

One of the vendors at this year’s market is Sean Armitage, the owner of Macduffs Soap Co., who started his business in 2018. When he first heard about the potential impact of U.S. tariffs, he quickly shifted gears to focus on a local customer base.

“It’s nice to see people enjoy the scents in person,” Armitage said. “’Cause like I get emails or messages and that’s alright — and then no border shenanigans.”

While many of the scents he uses are sourced from the United States, Armitage said he isn’t overly concerned about tariffs affecting his bottom line. In fact, he’s found growth opportunities abroad.

“That’s actually my biggest exporter — is China right now,” he said. “Because one of the shaving stores caught wind and they all started being like, ‘Hey, let’s get some of your stuff in there.’ So another reason why I am not too worried about the States thing is because they’re now my second biggest customer.”

Stephen Walsh, owner of Celtic Cravings, echoed that sentiment. His business hasn’t seen any negative effects from the trade tensions, he said, largely because he sources all his ingredients from within Canada.

“I haven’t noticed any effect from the tariffs,” Walsh said. “I only buy Canadian products, so it hasn’t affected me.”

While the farmers market has slightly fewer vendors this year — 70 approved, compared to 82 last year — organizers are hopeful attendance will rise. Last year, the market drew about 230 visitors per hour.

“This is the ultimate supporting of local,” said Quinn Phillips of the Edmonton Downtown Business Association. “You are getting single-origin fruits and vegetables as well as locally made products — all by vendors from Edmonton and area.”

The market runs every Saturday until Oct. 11.